Early 19th century miniature of a lady
Early 19th century miniature of a lady
7780
An early 19th century ebony-framed portrait miniature of an English lady, circa 1830.
Miniature portraits became fashionable in Europe from the 16th century, reaching their height of popularity during the Georgian and Regency periods. Painted with extraordinary delicacy, they typically depict a sitter's head and shoulders in watercolour on ivory, vellum or card.
Before photography, miniatures provided an intimate and portable likeness of loved ones and were often exchanged as tokens of affection, friendship or remembrance. Many were mounted in gold lockets, brooches or small frames, sometimes incorporating locks of hair.
Georgian examples are particularly prized for their fine detail, subtle colouring and elegant costume, offering a wonderfully personal glimpse into lives of the past.
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